INTRODUCTION. 



who studies Nature's laws, 



Sincerest pleasures from the country draws ; 

 And while the Arts his friendly aid receive, 

 For him, and him alone, does nature live." 



Delille. 



HISTORIANS generally seem to dwell with enthusiasm 

 on the splendid achievements in which the cannon, the 

 sword, and the bayonet, are chiefly instrumental ; we, 

 however, regard these implements of destruction with 

 far less reverence than we bestow on the spade, the rake, 

 and the pruning-knife, which enhance the beauties of the 

 spring, and the luxuries of the summer, make our vats 

 overflow in autumn, and secure us comforts for the win- 

 ter. Not that we are insensible to the merits of the 

 brave defenders of our country ; but we wish to see those, 

 whose talents and industry have so greatly enriched these 

 kingdoms by their attention to horticulture, partaking of 

 the admiration and gratitude of a people who are daily 

 enjoying the fruits of their labours. Has the most splen- 

 did campaign which our history boasts secured the nation 

 a treasure equal in value to the potatoe plant ? or would 

 we renounce the possession of ten of our best adopted 

 fruits to double the acquisitions of the last ten wars ? 

 For it is not (says the elegant Bernardin St. Pierre) upon 

 the face of vast dominions, but into the bosom of in- 

 dustry, that the Father of Mankind pours out the 

 abundant fruits of the Earth. 



